A 2022 study published in the journal PLOS ONE by researchers from the University of Sydney and other institutions documented wild octopuses (species Octopus tetricus) in Australia throwing shells, silt, and algae using their siphons.
This "throwing" is a rare example of tool use among invertebrates and was seen mostly among females.
The researchers noticed that females, particularly during mating interactions, were more likely to direct these throws at males who were harassing them or attempting repeated copulations.
While not all throws hit their target, many were deliberate and forceful. In some cases, males altered their behavior afterward, suggesting the act served as a deterrent.
This study highlights octopus intelligence, social behavior, and even their capacity for what might resemble frustration or social control.
It challenges the earlier belief that octopuses are mostly solitary and non-communicative.
This "throwing" is a rare example of tool use among invertebrates and was seen mostly among females.
The researchers noticed that females, particularly during mating interactions, were more likely to direct these throws at males who were harassing them or attempting repeated copulations.
While not all throws hit their target, many were deliberate and forceful. In some cases, males altered their behavior afterward, suggesting the act served as a deterrent.
This study highlights octopus intelligence, social behavior, and even their capacity for what might resemble frustration or social control.
It challenges the earlier belief that octopuses are mostly solitary and non-communicative.
A 2022 study published in the journal PLOS ONE by researchers from the University of Sydney and other institutions documented wild octopuses (species Octopus tetricus) in Australia throwing shells, silt, and algae using their siphons.
This "throwing" is a rare example of tool use among invertebrates and was seen mostly among females.
The researchers noticed that females, particularly during mating interactions, were more likely to direct these throws at males who were harassing them or attempting repeated copulations.
While not all throws hit their target, many were deliberate and forceful. In some cases, males altered their behavior afterward, suggesting the act served as a deterrent.
This study highlights octopus intelligence, social behavior, and even their capacity for what might resemble frustration or social control.
It challenges the earlier belief that octopuses are mostly solitary and non-communicative.
